Determining the Drought Tolerance of Some Alfalfa Cultivars in Early Growth Stage

Abstract

Low water availability is one of the important factors limiting adequate germination in arid and semi-arid areas. In these areas, the use of more suitable genotypes is a prerequisite for good germination. The research was conducted to determine the drought tolerance of some alfalfa cultivars grown in Turkey. In this study, eighteen alfalfa cultivars were subjected to drought stress stimulated by Polyethylene Glycol 6000 in various levels ( -3 and -6 bar) in petri dishes. Germination percentage, radicle length, vigor index, germination rate and germination index were investigated in the 7th days. Increased levels of drought stress have been significantly reduced seedling growth. Germination percentage were decreased by 9.9% in -3 bar, 88.6% in -6 bar compared to the control. Cultivars Sabrina, Queen and Frigos were more tolerant to drought, than other cultivars investigated, while cultivar Magna 601, Victoria and Sunter were susceptible. Considering all the characteristics, Sabrina can be considered as the most tolerant to drought. The inclusion of cultivar Sabrina to field experiment to be conducted in the region with restricted irrigation will contribute to the development of alfalfa production in these regions.